Reconciliation

"Therefore, confess your sins to one another and pray for one another, that you may be healed. The prayer of a righteous person has great power as it is working."

James 5:16

Also known as the Penance or Confession, this is the first of the sacrament of healing. Reconciliation is often viewed as difficult for many, but has the tremendous ability to free us from the burden of guilt. Being unable to forgive oneself or someone else, prevents us from feeling completely free and healed. It is written in the New Testament, 1 John 1:8, "If we say we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us." Therefore, confessing our sins that lay heavy on our heart helps us unite with our Father in heaven. This sacrament takes place with the priest, acting as the representative of God. He then, absolves the sin and grants a penance, to rectify for the sin confessed. The priest is bounded by the seal of confession, wherein whatever has been discussed between the penitent and him remains concealed from the world.

Confession times at St. Augustine

Saturdays 3:45 to 4:15 p.m.In the church or by appointment

The Mother Church of African-American Catholics in the Nation's Capital